Shift Working

[AJ'sOldman]

OK so I've managed to get back to training after a long lay off due to a serious leg injury, I've also returned to work but have went to a different job which involves shift work.

This is totally alien to me and on top of trying to loose the inevitable extra weight I'd put on while I was laid up I'm really struggling with my diet.

The training side I am just about getting used to but I can't seem to condition my body into eating at different times, as a result sometimes I feel weak and other times just feel bloated despite eating roughly the same amount that I used to pre injury.

Im not horrendously overweight but any advice form those who have overcame the problem of shift work would be much appreciated.

 

[Janster]

I've been doing shift work for 13 years - but within the last 2 years, rotating around to all 3 shifts. I hate it.

I can't give you any advice from the diet/fitness area - as I've only been working out for about a year by the seat of my pants. And personally, I need to change my eating habits also.

Shift work is hard to get used to and I don't think there's any given magic advice to give you that'll make everything better. Everyone is different...and there are sooooo many variables in life that make it even harder to deal with.

I think the most important part is making sure you're getting enough sleep.
Eating 3X a day and getting enough fluids - is key.

For me - 3rd shift is the worst (12-8am). As much as I hate to admit it - I resort to having a beer, using melatonin, & sleeping pills (not all at once) to ensure I get to sleep and stay asleep for atleast 6-8 hours. I don't normally drink caffeine - I drink a lot more caffeine on this shift than any other.

On 2nd & 3rd shifts - I always nibble on something before I go to bed (my 3rd meal) because I just can't sleep without something in my stomach. Don't eat too much before you go to bed - that's not good (gastro-intestinal aspect).

Sorry I can't offer help.
Concentrate on getting enough sleep.....and eat when you're hungry.
After a while, you'll get used to it and find your own niche of 'when to eat' - etc.